Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO
![Photo of Zachary Gilliam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fedc81e-8b59-4044-b975-2f926f50f526/1/320x400.png)
Zachary Gilliam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
Hello! My name is Zac Gilliam, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNPC-AG). In working with patients, I strive for a holistic approach to care that encompasses eating healthy, staying active, sleeping well, spending time with people you love, and doing the work and activities you enjoy, all of which are so important to mental health. Working on all of the things that contribute to well-being creates a synergistic effect to help patients achieve lasting and meaningful improvements.
![Photo of Leslie Vannucci, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126b2f0e-43b7-42ba-8cbc-f992dae120d0/2/320x400.png)
My name is Leslie, i am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received her Master's in Nursing from University of Cincinnati in 2005. I utilize medication, vitamins, nutrition, hormones, and gut-brain connections for treatment of mental health issues.
My name is Leslie, i am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and received her Master's in Nursing from University of Cincinnati in 2005. I utilize medication, vitamins, nutrition, hormones, and gut-brain connections for treatment of mental health issues.
![Photo of Faiza Haque, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f356ec5-7a8e-43e6-bef7-ee621905413c/1/320x400.png)
Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
Ms. Haque is committed to making each patient's experience at the practice as comfortable and practical as possible. She believes that an amalgamation of sound medical judgment, technology, and an optimistic attitude are needed to guarantee quick recovery and thorough care.
![Photo of Ivy Hoo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c94cc7b3-ddeb-41d3-9c95-04f12e84c670/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
Accepting New Patients! As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve their full potential and lead a fulfilling life. My goal is to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, considering all the factors that may impact a person's mental health and well-being. This includes working in collaboration with my patients, their families, and other healthcare providers to ensure that the care provided is safe, effective, patient-centered, and tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. To check my availability go to our website and my first available will be listed there.
![Photo of Mary Beth Hutchinson, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f29a9878-c386-4723-8701-46c7328235af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
Are you depressed or anxious? I can help with your medication management. My name is Mary "Beth" Hutchinson. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, treating patients ages 4 and up. I am also certified as a family nurse practitioner, which provides a broad base to individualize age appropriate treatment. We can meet and have our sessions through video on our telemedicine platform, so you can be at the comfort of your home while we meet. We will evaluate your specific concerns, work with you to develop a practical plan, and I'll support you through the process of improving your life.
![Photo of Brenda McCarthy - Logos Therapeutics/Integrative Psychiatry, ANP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b39053c-418b-4417-b829-6a5111a42339/1/320x400.jpeg)
Logos Therapeutics/Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014
Numerous studies have shown that medications in combination with psychotherapy yield the best treatment outcomes. If you have been searching for a provider with dual expertise in these critical aspects of care and desire a more comprehensive and holistic experience, contact me today. As your provider I am committed to facilitating your unique path to self-discovery through evidence-based multi-modal interventions.
Numerous studies have shown that medications in combination with psychotherapy yield the best treatment outcomes. If you have been searching for a provider with dual expertise in these critical aspects of care and desire a more comprehensive and holistic experience, contact me today. As your provider I am committed to facilitating your unique path to self-discovery through evidence-based multi-modal interventions.
![Photo of Shawn Howard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e174e5c-e1a3-440d-a958-ae3ea4506f8f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
I am Shawn Howard, and I am a ANCC-board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of psychiatric experience, ranging from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient psychiatric care. My specialties include depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep, OCD, ADHD and more. My approach to providing care to my patients is to actively listen to the patient and help them with the best choices to improve their self well -being.
![Photo of Joe Crowley, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c37cd1ca-0e03-45e0-8ffc-78c394593e7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
Accepting New Patients! - Joseph “Joe” P. Crowley is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. He brings over seven years of inpatient and outpatient psychiatric experience to his patients while offering an attentive, accommodating patient care philosophy. Joe earned his BSN and MSN degrees at Regis University. He completed his inpatient and outpatient clinical training at various facilities in the Denver Metro area. He also received professional recognition for academic achievements and ICARE awards while working at the V.A. Eastern Colorado Health Care System.
![Photo of Michael Moore, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b7efa9f-9b82-428d-9d82-4fb7b2bacc33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
Michael Moore, PMHNP-BC I deeply value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my participants. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. I specialize in both adult and geriatric psychiatry. I understand we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences. I tailor my approach to the individual, while incorporating aspects of brief solutions focused therapy, CBT and family systems. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my patients with as many tools as possible for future successes.
![Photo of Jo Ann Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84ffcaf0-73b7-4f6d-8223-48d35540548d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approached to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing is a about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidenced based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Hello, my name is Jo Ann Brown I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based medication management and psychotherapy; both are gold standards for mental health wellbeing. My areas of experience include but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, and Alcohol Use Disorders. My approached to practice is characterized by a holistic approach. I understand optimum mental health wellbeing is a about implementing a long-term plan for life. I use evidenced based CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help people modify their thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
![Photo of Amy Card, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c8a65e3-e30d-4b63-b319-94f832a7673b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Card
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Hello there! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s in Nursing Practice (ARNP). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in acute, rehabilitation, home health, and psychiatric care across the lifespan. My goal is to provide a care of excellence to people struggling with mental wellness impacting their quality of life. Together I work to build a therapeutic relationship giving respect, dignity, and autonomy. I meet any individual “right where they are” with no judgments or preconceived ideals.
Hello there! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s in Nursing Practice (ARNP). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in acute, rehabilitation, home health, and psychiatric care across the lifespan. My goal is to provide a care of excellence to people struggling with mental wellness impacting their quality of life. Together I work to build a therapeutic relationship giving respect, dignity, and autonomy. I meet any individual “right where they are” with no judgments or preconceived ideals.
15 Second Videos
Zachary Gilliam
Ivy Hoo
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Logos Therapeutics/Integrative Psychiatry
Shawn Howard
Joe Crowley
Michael Moore
Jo Ann Brown
Amy Card
Axis Integrated Mental Health
David Asante
Syamjith Jayadevan
Olga Baturenko
Solutions Healthcare, LLC
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Ebelechukwu Ekwenugo
Joanna Kluender
Esther Okanlawon
Letitia Osei Sam
Hanna Powers
Robyn Goldsmith (Accepting New Patients)
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Aquila Roberts
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Mary Beth Hutchinson
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Esther Okanlawon
Amanda Wisian
Andrew Nagy
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Joe Crowley
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Mindfulness Psychiatry, PLLC, Tracy Tyler
James Anderson
Andrew Nagy
Caitlin (Catie) deWit
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Richard Wallis
Robyn Goldsmith
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Angela Graham
Rhiannon Brey
![Photo of Christopher Perez - Axis Integrated Mental Health, APRN, CRNA, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd7cef0e-1c24-4675-aae2-8b31ba3b2278/1/320x400.png)
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
Get seen ASAP! Accepting new patients and nearly every insurance! The ONLY clinic in Colorado who does TMS for Medicaid patients thanks to our personal endowment. Whether you need medications, therapy, or cutting-edge treatment for Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety, we are your single-stop shop for help. With board-certified psychiatric providers, licensed psychotherapists, and treatments like Spravato, TMS, and Ketamine all under one roof, we can minimize out-of-pocket costs while maximizing healing.
![Photo of David Asante, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69553572-a3bf-4f5b-86ed-ba29fb7cae0f/1/320x400.png)
My name is David Asante and I’m a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, other Mood Disorders, Eating and Personality Disorders, ADHD and many more.
My name is David Asante and I’m a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). My expertise covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, other Mood Disorders, Eating and Personality Disorders, ADHD and many more.
![Photo of Syamjith Jayadevan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a98ddec3-84d3-4d53-9dde-352779b19250/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Sam, I am Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in the State of Colorado. I have a holistic approach to mental health, considering the biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to a person's well-being. I am specialized in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. I typically work with adult population aged 18 and above.
My name is Sam, I am Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in the State of Colorado. I have a holistic approach to mental health, considering the biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to a person's well-being. I am specialized in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. I typically work with adult population aged 18 and above.
![Photo of Olga Baturenko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbcb2899-8d9a-4b7b-bcf4-1fdf2bb5a216/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olga Baturenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Olga Baturenko is licensed to practice as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. Olga started her nursing career in 2006 working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, Olga brings a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
Olga Baturenko is licensed to practice as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Colorado. Olga started her nursing career in 2006 working at psychiatric facilities in Northern Virginia after completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Johns Hopkins University. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in mental health at the University of Pennsylvania in 2010. Having worked with a broad range of psychiatric conditions in outpatient, inpatient, civilian, and military settings, Olga brings a wealth of knowledge to every therapeutic encounter.
![Photo of Risikat Ajoke Sanusi - Solutions Healthcare, LLC, PMNHP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/773bfd7d-3e0f-45ad-b352-20c2921d63f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Solutions Healthcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, BC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014
My name is Risi Sanusi & I am a mental health provider with over 20 years of nursing & mental health experience. I cater to individuals aged 18 years and above facing various mental health challenges. My expertise lies in addressing a spectrum of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, personality disorders, dementia, substance use disorders, addictive disorders, and more. Together, let's work towards a healthier and more resilient mental state.
My name is Risi Sanusi & I am a mental health provider with over 20 years of nursing & mental health experience. I cater to individuals aged 18 years and above facing various mental health challenges. My expertise lies in addressing a spectrum of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression disorders, bipolar disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, personality disorders, dementia, substance use disorders, addictive disorders, and more. Together, let's work towards a healthier and more resilient mental state.
![Photo of Chandra Price, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9a5c08e-1e65-48a1-8289-46a63144cbbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
Hello! Chandra Price here. I am a double-boarded family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner deeply committed to providing compassionate care. With a focus on integrated behavioral health, I draw from my extensive experience in community-based clinics to address both mental health and general medical concerns. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and collaborating with them to develop evidence-based treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. I'm dedicated to supporting you on your journey to better health and well-being.
![Photo of Lori A Bailey, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7e731eb-e117-43de-93b4-9977a55a9f38/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lori A Bailey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
Now offering MASSAGE therapy! My ideal client is engaged in therapy. Medication can only take you so far in healing. Medicine improves brain chemicals. But a good therapist is needed to change negative habits of mind that develop when we don't feel well. I can help by working with you and your therapist to develop a treatment plan that maximizes your ability to participate in therapy and a healthy, peaceful life! We include tips on diet, exercise, and sleep.
Now offering MASSAGE therapy! My ideal client is engaged in therapy. Medication can only take you so far in healing. Medicine improves brain chemicals. But a good therapist is needed to change negative habits of mind that develop when we don't feel well. I can help by working with you and your therapist to develop a treatment plan that maximizes your ability to participate in therapy and a healthy, peaceful life! We include tips on diet, exercise, and sleep.
![Photo of Ebelechukwu Ekwenugo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5d304cb-e4db-4ad2-9844-6c42eadffb02/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified PMHNP who became a provider because providing service to children, adolescents and adults with mental illness is one of the highlights of my life. I have 18-year experience in health care, with 12 years in mental health. My career as a PMHNP symbolizes a partnership between patients, often their families and myself. Mental health work to me is a passion for which I employ my full commitment to helping patients with my knowledge. My single most important professional accomplishment is getting the chance to make a difference in people’s lives.
I am a board-certified PMHNP who became a provider because providing service to children, adolescents and adults with mental illness is one of the highlights of my life. I have 18-year experience in health care, with 12 years in mental health. My career as a PMHNP symbolizes a partnership between patients, often their families and myself. Mental health work to me is a passion for which I employ my full commitment to helping patients with my knowledge. My single most important professional accomplishment is getting the chance to make a difference in people’s lives.
I am Dr. Dilgarde, a distinguished Nurse Practitioner with dual degrees in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health, holding a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am licensed in Colorado and specialize in general adult psychiatry, focusing on mental health issues within the general population, LGBT and BIPOC communities. My robust academic and professional background demonstrates my dedication and expertise across various clinical settings.
I am Dr. Dilgarde, a distinguished Nurse Practitioner with dual degrees in Family and Psychiatric Mental Health, holding a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. I am licensed in Colorado and specialize in general adult psychiatry, focusing on mental health issues within the general population, LGBT and BIPOC communities. My robust academic and professional background demonstrates my dedication and expertise across various clinical settings.
See more therapy options for Aurora
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO
100+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO who prioritize treating:
98% | Depression |
98% | Anxiety |
87% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
93% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Aurora, CO see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Aurora?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.